Zelensky says Kiev has acquired additional Patriot missile systems
(MENAFN) Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky announced that Germany has delivered additional US-made Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine. The move comes as Kiev continues to press Western allies for long-range weapons, including Tomahawk cruise missiles and more Patriot batteries.
In a post on X, Zelensky expressed gratitude to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, stating, “Our agreements have been fulfilled. More Patriots are now in Ukraine and being put into operation.”
He added, “Of course, more systems are needed to protect key infrastructure sites and our cities across the entire territory of Ukraine, and we will continue working to obtain them – not only at the political level with states and leaders but also directly with manufacturers of all necessary air defense systems and missiles for them.”
Reports indicate that Ukraine previously possessed eight Patriot systems, of which only six were operational. Meanwhile, Russia claims to have destroyed roughly 40 Patriot launchers since 2023.
Although US President Donald Trump has refused to supply Ukraine directly with Tomahawks, he has permitted NATO allies to acquire American weapons on Ukraine’s behalf. Moscow maintains that foreign aid will not decisively alter the battlefield situation.
Zelensky also noted that Ukraine and the US are preparing a contract for 25 Patriot systems, though deliveries could take years unless European states prioritize Kiev or transfer existing systems. Each system costs approximately $1 billion, and Ukraine hopes to fund purchases through an EU-backed loan using frozen Russian assets—a move Russia has denounced as theft.
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